When it comes to food, Penang is definitely a worth-visiting destination in Malaysia. This tiny island off the west coast of the Malay Peninsula is renowned for its excellent hawker fare, and deservedly so. From delectable char kway teow and laksa to nasi kandar and cendol, there’s something here for everyone – even the most discerning foodies will be satisfied. So, without further ado, here are the top 8 must-eat foods and best hawkers in Penang!
1. Sentosa Corner Bukit Mertajam 圣陶沙茶餐室
Sentosa Corner Bukit Mertajam is truly a hidden gem in the state of Pulau Pinang, Malaysia! When it comes to traditional eats and famous dishes, Sentosa Corner definitely has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a deliciously comforting bowl of yam rice or want to indulge your sweet tooth with a warm egg tart, Sentosa Corner is where you should be heading. You won’t regret it – their yam rice is hearty and filling, while their egg tarts are the perfect combination of buttery crust and creamy filling. Trust us; even if Sentosa Corner isn’t on your itinerary, it should be!
2. Green House Prawn Mee Corner
Green House Prawn Mee Corner is a hidden gem located in Penang, Malaysia. With its delicious homemade prawn mee, Green House has people coming from all over the world to enjoy this iconic dish. Although Green House may not look particularly enticing on the outside, step inside and you’ll be met with a mouthwatering aroma of shrimp-infused noodles and sauces. If you’re ever looking for a comforting bowl of prawn mee while in Penang, Green House Prawn Mee Corner is definitely the place to go!
3. Hock Seng Rojak
Hock Seng Rojak is one of Penang’s famous rojak stalls. Hock Seng has been gracing the island with its special blend of flavours, textures and ‘secret sauce’ since ages ago. Whether you’re a local born-and-bred or just visiting, Hock Seng’s rojak will tantalise your tastebuds and leave you wanting more with every bite. For an authentic Penang food experience, Hock Seng Rojak is where the adventure begins!
4. 3888 Fried Oyster
Don’t miss out on 3888 Fried Oyster, a must-try street food in Penang. Also widely known as ‘Oh Chien’, 3888’s fried oyster omelette is the perfect combination of succulent, juicy and fresh oysters tucked within an omelette that is expertly seasoned to perfection. It’ll have you coming back for seconds and thirds! This classic Malaysian street food might be intimidating for some, but 3888 Fried Oyster will provide an experience that you won’t soon forget!
5. Gurney Drive Hawker Centre
Gurney Drive Hawker Centre has become a popular tourist destination for those who want to enjoy Penang’s local delicacies without burning a hole in their wallet. Everything from succulent satays to delicious laksas can be found at Gurney Drive’s many stalls, which could just make it the best street food spot in all of Penang! And don’t forget the cockles and rojak to top off your feast. Gurney Drive Hawker Centre allows you to experience a flavor- and cost-filled adventure that makes a trip down south totally worth it!
6. Kwong Wah Tom Yam Noodles
Kwong Wah Tom Yam Noodles is the go-to place for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Penang tom yam. From aromatic herbal stock to succulent seafood, Kwong Wah’s extraordinary tom yam creations promise to tantalize even the most jaded of palates. Just one bowl and you’ll be transported back to old-style Malaysia: a place where family, food and culture meet. So, come gather around Kwong Wah’s tables and revel in a dining experience like no other – it’s sure to leave you wanting more.
7. Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul
Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul is a Penang-ite institution – it really can’t be argued! If Penang is known for its amazing selection of food and one of the best street eats in the world, Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul is also very much in that mix. It’s always packed with hungry locals ready to devour what Penang Road has to offer – especially the cendol and rojak, which are staples here! And don’t forget the ais kacang and laksa, too! Each item is as exceptionally delicious as the next – so visit Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul today to get your fill of Penang’s fantastic flavours!
8. Siam Road Charcoal Char Koay Teow
Siam Road Charcoal Char Koay Teow is renowned in Penang, Malaysia, as the most delicious and mouth-watering char kway teow. Once you enter Siam Road and get a whiff of their authentic wok hei flavor, it’s hard to resist the temptation of queuing up for this legendary dish. Sizzling hot on your plate, with succulent shrimps and juicy pieces of pork lard that crackle softly with all the tantalizing flavors blending together harmoniously, it’s no wonder Siam Road Charcoal Char Koay Teow remains as one of the must-eat food when visiting Penang.
